Workers in Ithaca to attack invasive aquatic plant in the Finger Lakes

ITHACA, N.Y. (AP) — Workers are set to spread weed killer on 95 acres of water in the Finger Lakes in a bid to control an invasive aquatic plant.

Authorities tell the Ithaca Journal that the herbicide will be poured in the Cayuga Inlet in Ithaca starting today. The target is hydrilla, a popular aquarium plant that's been found in the local waters.

Common around the world, it's considered an invasive plant in the U.S. and grows rapidly when it gets into waterways, quickly forming dense mats up to 25 feet deep.

Ithaca declared an environmental emergency after experts warned the plant could move into Cayuga Lake and other waters if it isn't controlled.